Walk & Talk Therapy
We take therapy outside! Get those steps in while you work on combining physical health and mental wellness simultaneously!
Overview
Perhaps you like to maintain an active lifestyle. Or you have a difficult time sitting still. Whatever the situation, lace up those shoes and get ready for Walk & Talk Therapy! Whether individual, couple or group, we take therapy outside! Please note this modality is dependent on weather and can be intermittent with traditional office-based therapy or teletherapy options. While our office is on busy Southfield Rd, within about 10 minutes, we can be over near Miller Park or Bedford Woods Park and spend about 30 minutes in the quieter neighborhood and park before heading back to the office.
Why Walk & Talk?
There are a number of reasons why we have folks opting for walk and talk sessions.
They include:
Many people find they think more clearly while walking than sitting still.
This can be especially helpful for people who feel anxious in traditional office settings.
Nature itself can be therapeutic.
1. Reduced Stress and Anxiety
Walking in nature lowers cortisol (stress hormone) levels and can calm the nervous system. Outdoor settings naturally promote relaxation, making it easier to open up.2. Boosts Mood Through Movement
Physical activity releases endorphins and serotonin, which help reduce symptoms of depression. Even light walking can significantly improve mood and energy levels.3. Enhances Mental Clarity
Movement increases blood flow to the brain, which can improve:- Focus
- Creativity
- Problem-solving
- Emotional processing
Many people find they think more clearly while walking than sitting still.
4. Feels Less Intimidating
Walking side-by-side (rather than face-to-face) can:- Reduce social pressure
- Make eye contact less intense
- Feel more natural and conversational
This can be especially helpful for people who feel anxious in traditional office settings.
5. Increases Connection to Nature
Exposure to green spaces is linked to:- Lower depression rates
- Reduced rumination (overthinking)
- Improved overall wellbeing
Nature itself can be therapeutic.
6. Helps When Feeling “Stuck”
If you feel emotionally stuck, physically moving can create a sense of forward momentum. The body and mind often influence each other.7. Reduces Sedentary Time
If you spend most of your day sitting (work, commuting, screens), this adds gentle movement to your routine.Who Might Benefit Most?
- People with mild to moderate anxiety or depression
- Individuals who feel restless in traditional therapy
- Clients working through life transitions
- Those who enjoy being outdoors
Things to Consider
- Weather and physical ability- There may be times when the weather is too cold or you physically are not up for it and that is okay. Walk and Talk can be intermingled with traditional office based or remote therapy options.
- Privacy in public spaces is not guaranteed and so by agreeing to walk and talk sessions, you are acknowledging that you understand the risk that you could run into someone you know or that a community member could overhear part of your conversation.
- Accessibility needs
Not ideal for every condition (e.g., severe trauma work may require a more controlled setting with fewer stimuli)